State Department issues security advisory for Americans in Pakistan

WASHINGTON- The State Department issued a security advisory for Americans in Pakistan, which has been rocked by clashes between the government and protesters demanding Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's resignation. “Hundreds of people have been reported injured and at least three people reportedly killed since protests turned violent on Saturday,” the State Department said in a statement. Officials also told Americans to stay away from the capital's government and diplomatic enclave known as the "Red Zone," and avoid "demonstration routes and areas, keep a low profile, exercise caution, and avoid large gatherings." Protests led by Imran Khan, a renowned cricketer before entering politics, and fiery cleric Tahir ul-Qadri, descended into deadly chaos on Saturday, with at least three people killed and more than 500 injured. On Monday, the State Department urged “all sides to refrain from violence, exercise restraint, and respect the rule of law,” adding that that the U.S. was not involved in the process or holding discussions between the parties.